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United Airlines Flight Develops Technical Fault, Returns to Lagos with Injured Passengers

Last Updated on 25 January 2025 by Naijadazz



A United Airlines flight, Boeing 787-8, traveling from Lagos to Washington Dulles, declared an emergency and returned to Lagos on Thursday, January 24, 2025. The aircraft, with registration N27903, is over 13 years old and belongs to United Airlines.

The flight carried 245 passengers, eight flight attendants, and three pilots. Some passengers reportedly sustained injuries during the incident. Videos and pictures from passengers showed scattered food and luggage inside the aircraft, indicating a turbulent flight.

While the exact cause remains unconfirmed, passengers speculated it was an engine-related issue. The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau will be responsible for determining the actual cause.

Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, confirmed that passengers have been accommodated in hotels as required by regulations.

United Airlines released a brief statement acknowledging a "technical issue" that necessitated the return to Lagos. They confirmed that first responders attended to reports of minor injuries to several passengers and crew upon landing.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) provided more details in a statement on Friday. According to FAAN:

The rescue team was alerted four minutes after the pilot reported distress at 01:20.
The aircraft parked at Delta 31 for deboarding at 03:37.
Four passengers and two crew members sustained serious injuries.
27 passengers and five crew members suffered minor injuries.
Injured individuals were transported to various medical facilities including MMA Clinic, Headquarters Clinic, and Duchess Hospital in Ikeja.
Uninjured passengers were accommodated in nearby hotels.
The aircraft did not sustain major damage.
FAAN assured the public of its commitment to safety and responsiveness, promising further updates as necessary.

This incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness in aviation and the need for swift response to in-flight emergencies. It also underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining aircraft safety, particularly for older aircraft in service.